The common dandelion is looked upon by most as a weed and an annoyance, but dandelion should be looked upon as a garden green high in vitamins A, C, E and B complex, iron, calcium, and potassium as well.  We enjoy dandelion salads, cooked greens and our most favorite is a dandelion salad topped with hot bacon dressing.

All parts of the common dandelion are edible.  The younger the plant the less bitter the greens.  You can mix the greens in a blender with tomato juice for a cold drink high in vitamins.  For those of you with spicy taste buds you could also add Worcestershire sauce, Tobasco sauce or the Trayer Wilderness Hot Sauce.  It makes a pale yellow wine, is great in tea and makes an amazing jelly.

The plant is known for it's many medicinal purposes as well.  It has been used to treat liver, urinary tract and digestive problems.  The roots have been reported to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, to lower blood pressure, to reduce inflammation, to have anti-microbial effects and to aid weight loss.  This is just a few useful tidbits on the common dandelion, but I highly suggest that you try it in your salads, teas and especially with the hot bacon dressing below…   Blessings….